Prior to joining the Employment research unit in Eurofound in November 2021, I completed a Master's degree in Economics at University of Rome La Sapienza. I was very interested in research related to labour markets and restructurings, so the traineeship turned out to be perfect for me. I was responsible for maintaining a database on restructuring events across the European Union (ERM), but I was also involved in projects and publications on relevant topics, like telework, structural changes in labour markets and the impact of the green transition on employment. Overall, I can say I really improved my quantitative and qualitative skills and got to know what working in research is. Even though I was only a trainee, my voice has always been heard and I found a very welcoming and collaborative environment made by other researchers from whom I learnt a lot.
Living in Dublin is fun; it can be quite expensive, but the grant provided has always been enough. Usually there is a group of trainees and it's very easy to make friendships.
Working for this EU Agency was a privilege, because I really felt at the heart of the research supporting the EU's policymaking in employment, working conditions and social policies.
I took the risk, bet on myself, and Eurofound's traineeship helped me to find my way in life and opened many doors for my career. I really wish the same to future trainees: it's up to you to grasp all opportunities and make the best of this experience!